Born in Guam, Tina grew up in Southern California. In 1980, her family moved to the Pacific Northwest.

In 1988, Tina started Bandula to promote her artwork. In 1993, she expanded into publishing with her debut book, The Sun Is Always Shining Above The Clouds. The book is a non-fiction compilation of poems, essays and original paintings. The book has helped many people deal with what Tina calls "the game of life." The Sun Is Always Shining Above The Clouds reflects on how to create a life fueled by love, change and growth.

Tina is also an ordained minister. She has acted as the officiant for numerous wedding ceremonies and performs a variety of spiritual services.

Tina currently lives in Seattle with her husband William. She has two sons, Brian and Blake Anthony.